Chippewa Valley Times

Another year has concluded for the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Athletic Department, prompting reflection on recent achievements and future goals. In a letter to the Blugold community, Athletics Director Jason Verdugo highlighted the department’s accomplishments over the past year.

Verdugo noted that UW-Eau Claire athletes participated in 14 national championship events, with five teams reaching the NCAA Tournament. The university produced 46 All-America honors and two national athletes of the year. Three student-athletes secured four national championships collectively.

The department placed 21st out of 323 NCAA Division III institutions in the Learfield Directors' Cup, which recognizes overall athletic excellence among colleges and universities at this level. This result puts UW-Eau Claire within the top seven percent nationally in Division III athletics.

Academic achievement was also emphasized. Student-athletes posted a cumulative grade point average of 3.37, and three were named to Academic All-America first teams. Verdugo pointed out their involvement on campus and in the wider community through volunteer efforts.

Support from alumni, donors, and fans was recognized as vital to these successes. Fundraising efforts culminated during the annual Week of Giving, when $318,050 was raised in one week to support student-athletes and coaches.

Verdugo outlined his vision for UW-Eau Claire Athletics moving forward: "We are built on a foundation of belief, details and trust. Those three words will be commonplace in our huddles, locker rooms and offices this year. They're values that drive excellence on and off the field."

He continued: "As a leader in the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and a program that earns national recognition through NCAA Division III competition, UW-Eau Claire sets the standard for what it means to excel at this level. At its core, Blugold Athletics is shaped by premier coaching, a rich tradition of excellence, and a commitment to the principles that build champions."

"Our championship culture aims to be rooted in belief, details and trust," Verdugo said. "Our student-athletes can thrive in competition and character, and every team can be a source of pride for the university and community. We develop transformational leaders who elevate others through mastery of the details, unwavering trust and contagious belief."

"It's an exciting time for UW-Eau Claire Athletics," he concluded.